The Understudy Coffee and Books

Such a cozy spot to get some work done or catch up with friends

Came here to get some studying done after work. It has a lovely vibe, lots of outlets, and the decor was really nice! However my $8 coffee tasted awful and the wi-fi didn't work so I ended up having to go home right away.

We LOVE the understudy (ꈍᴗꈍ)♡
Very cozy with great drinks and a great place to get work done. Drinks r kinda pricy but they actually are made so well. I would be friends with everyone who works here too so that’s great

love the drinks & vibe in here. simple & delicious. i had the espresso tonic which was great. a cozy & sunny place to work or just talk with friends. i’ve gone to events here too which were nice. when i was there the wifi wouldn’t connect, but thinking it was just my computer because other people seemed to be working? but it seemed to be a router issue based on what my computer said. they also sell books here & if you like theater, it’s definitely a place you’ll love even more.

The Understudy is already a hub for Chicago Theatre. Walk in on any given day and you'll find:
- Amazing help at the front desk (ask them for a play rec. They'll push your literature in surprising directions and you wont be dissapointed.)
- Curated tables each month from Chicago Artists with their recommendations for plays/books.
- A production meeting in the back (with a working set design model in scale!?)
- Parents buying their children books that affirm their gender, experience, and interest in theatre.
- a playwright working through their next draft.
- Artists connecting over tea/coffee and planning their next collaboration.
- refreshing drinks and pastries at the front (my favorite is Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure with a Strawberry Matcha Donut).

This isn't even mentioning their night programming. The Understudy also hosts night-time events; whether its a Latte Art Throw Down, play reading, networking event, or live podcast recording. The store has become "the third place" for many theatre folks and members of the Andersonville community. Go in and ask for a play recommendation or stop by for their amazing drinks!

Great coffee & great space to get work done or have a meeting.

I went to the open mic recently and it was run really well & super welcoming!

Friendly, goody staff and decent coffee. Sitting space feels limited when the work crowd is in and the book selection is rather niche.

Great spot to read a book and catch up on some work!

Great place. The staff is well trained and you can tell they like working there.

Wonderful spot to work, talk with friends or peruse their bookstore. The drinks and food are delicious and the staff is very welcoming. Will definitely be coming back again.